Saia PCD4.H320 7-Channel Analog Input Module for PCD Series PLC Systems

The Saia PCD4.H320 is a high-precision analog input module designed for the PCD series programmable logic controller systems from Saia-Burgess Controls. This universal module provides seven analog input channels for measuring 0-20 mA current signals, making it suitable for industrial measurement applications requiring accurate conversion of sensor and transmitter signals. The PCD4.H320 is compatible with the PCD1/2 system architecture and is ideal for process control, monitoring, and data acquisition applications where multiple analog signals must be captured and processed by the PLC.

Key Specifications

• Model: PCD4.H320 Universal Module

• Product Series: Saia PCD Series

• Number of Input Channels: 7

• Signal Range: 0 to 20 mA

• Resolution: 12 bits (0 to 4095 counts)

• Least Significant Bit Resolution: 4.88 µA/bit

• System Compatibility: PCD1/2 system

• Module Type: Input/output elements in casing, attachable to CPUs, RIOs, or LIOs

• Weight: 1.00 kg

• Dimensions: 180 x 120 x 100 mm

• Brand: Saia-Burgess Controls (Saia-Burgess)

High-Precision Analog Input Measurement

The PCD4.H320 provides high-precision measurement of 0-20 mA current signals with 12-bit resolution (4096 possible measured values). The resulting resolution of 4.88 µA per bit ensures accurate capture of small signal variations from industrial transmitters. The module can achieve even more precise values beyond the 12-bit resolution when using suitable algorithms such as moving averages. With the PG5 and QronoX engineering environments, the module achieves a measuring range of 0-20 mA with a resolution of 1 µA as standard.

Flexible Configuration and Scaling

The PCD4.H320 offers flexible configuration options to match specific application requirements. In the configurator, users can choose whether to use measurement results in microamperes or in bits. A user-defined range can also be displayed for special applications, with lower and upper values configurable as any integer between -32,768 and +32,767. The lower value must be smaller than the upper value, and all values in between are converted directly proportional to these two basic values. This scaling capability allows the module to present measurement data directly in engineering units, simplifying PLC programming.

Compatibility with PCD1/2 Systems

The PCD4.H320 is fully compatible with the PCD1/2 system architecture from Saia-Burgess Controls. The PCD system is a flexible automation platform that can be used alone or expanded, with all modules sharing a unified box-type structure that plugs directly into base plates that are daisy-chained into a bus system. The system can be configured from a basic unit with one serial port and two I/O modules to a fully expanded system with up to 32 I/O modules, 6 serial ports, and support for Saia S-Bus, Profibus FMS/DP, and Ethernet TCP/IP.

Industrial Applications

The PCD4.H320 analog input module is deployed across a wide range of industrial measurement and process control applications. In process control, it reads 4-20 mA signals from pressure, temperature, flow, and level transmitters for real-time monitoring and regulation. In manufacturing, it captures analog feedback from sensors for quality control and machine monitoring. In building automation, it interfaces with sensors for energy management and environmental control. The seven-channel configuration allows multiple analog signals to be measured from a single module.

Integration with PG5 and QronoX

The PCD4.H320 is programmed and configured using Saia's PG5 Controls Suite engineering environment and the QronoX measurement platform. PG5 supports all IEC 61131-3 programming languages including Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram, Structured Text, Instruction List, and Sequential Function Chart. With PG5 and QronoX, the module achieves enhanced measurement resolution of 1 µA for 0-20 mA signals as standard. The integrated environment provides tools for configuring analog input channels, scaling measurement data, and monitoring real-time values.

Compact and Modular Design

The PCD4.H320 features a compact form factor that allows installation in space-constrained control cabinets. The module is housed in a sturdy casing compatible with the PCD1/2 system's modular architecture. The module attaches to CPUs, RIOs (Remote I/O), or LIOs (Local I/O), providing flexible placement within the automation system. The standardized dimensions and mounting system simplify installation and reduce engineering effort for system configuration.

Conclusion

The Saia PCD4.H320 universal analog input module provides seven channels of high-precision 0-20 mA measurement with 12-bit resolution for PCD series PLC systems. Its compatibility with the PCD1/2 architecture, flexible scaling options, and enhanced resolution with PG5/QronoX make it a reliable solution for industrial measurement and process control applications.